A Louis XV carved walnut and parcel-gilt canapé en corbeille, circa 1750

with contoured seat and backrest carved with floral patterns and upholstered with Beauvais tapestry; ensuite with previous lot

This canapé en corbeille is in good condition. There are minor marks and scratches consistent with and use, and traces of old woodworm which appears to be no longer active. The 18th century tapestry cover is a good tonal colour match with the printed catalogue photograph and the sides are with a brighter yellow ground, to the central back and seat panels, which are lighter and in reality have more definition. The outer sides have tapestry panels as visible in the photograph. The reverse of the canape back has a modern caramel coloured velvet inset. The main design of the tapestry has some small areas of repair and reweaving. There is some reweaving to the edges in places, for example to outer edges of both outer side panels, and to the upper edge of left inside panel, and front centre of canapé edge (see the in situ interior shot in the catalogue on pp.62-63). Tapestry overall is in good restored condition and is in usable condition. It would benefit from being cleaned. Very decorative lot.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

See Charissa Bremer-David, French Tapestries and Textiles in the J. Paul Getty Museum, J.Paul Getty Museum publication, Los Angeles, California, 1997, Cat. No. 10, pp.98-105, for discussion of comparable tapestry technique table carpets, with similar distinctive yellow ground and exuberant floral design, from the late 17th, early 18th century.